Apply for a heritage grant

A conservation grant is available for owners of Greater Shepparton properties with a heritage overlay.

Greater Shepparton residents and business owners with properties in the heritage overlay are eligible to apply to the 2017/18 Heritage Grants Program.

Greater Shepparton City Council, in association with the Greater Shepparton Heritage Advisory committee, recently launched the program, which aims to promote good conservation practice.

The grants cover the maintenance, preservation, reconstruction or restoration works that improve the physical security or appearance of a place, while being respectful of the place’s significance.

Greater Shepparton sustainable development director Johann Rajaratnam said good heritage practices enriched the community and its unique character provides a sense of identity and pride.

‘‘Council already provides a free heritage advisory service to all property owners, land developers, tradespeople in the building industry, and owners of buildings in the Heritage Overlay,’’ Mr Rajaratnam said.

‘‘The program will help to secure the future of many of our heritage places and ensure our heritage is preserved for many generations to enjoy.’’

The Heritage Grants Program will seek to support conservation works to shops and public buildings that are not owned by council or other public bodies and houses across the municipality.

Grants of up to $5000 are available on a dollar-for-dollar basis.

Eligible works generally do not include routine maintenance works, unless that maintenance ensures the longevity of a place’s significance.